Our Story
Born from a Love of
Real Pizza
Mod Pizza started with a simple idea: give people the power to build their own perfect pizza — fresh, fast, and exactly the way they want it. In 2010, founders Scott and Ally Svenson opened the first Mod Pizza in Seattle with that vision, and it spread like wildfire.
What set us apart from day one wasn't just the food. It was the belief that a restaurant can be a force for good — hiring people who need a second chance, sourcing ingredients responsibly, and treating every customer like family.
Today, our Downers Grove, IL location carries that same spirit. Every pizza you order here is made to order on fresh dough, with toppings you choose, at a price that doesn't punish generosity.
What Drives Us
Our Mission & Promise
We believe great pizza is about more than taste. It's about people, community, and doing things the right way — every single time.
Fresh Ingredients
We source our produce locally whenever possible and never use artificial preservatives. Your pizza deserves better than shortcuts.
Community First
We hire from within our community, support local causes, and give back through food donation programs that reduce waste and fight hunger.
Your Pizza, Your Rules
Unlimited toppings, same price. We believe everyone should get exactly what they want without compromise or extra charges.
People Over Profit
We've always been a people-first business. That means fair wages, flexible schedules, and a workplace where everyone belongs.
Core Values
The Principles That
Guide Everything
Radical Generosity
Unlimited toppings at one price isn't just a business model — it's a statement. We give generously because we believe you deserve it.
Authenticity in Every Bite
No fake flavors, no shortcuts. Real dough, real sauce, real cheese — made fresh because real tastes better, full stop.
Inclusive Culture
Every person who walks through our door — as a customer or a crew member — deserves to feel welcomed, respected, and valued.
Responsible Growth
We grow thoughtfully — partnering with local suppliers, reducing food waste, and making decisions that are good for people and planet.
Our Journey
How We Got Here
From a single shop in Seattle to a beloved spot in Downers Grove — every milestone shaped who we are today.
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2010
The First Mod
Scott and Ally Svenson open the first Mod Pizza in Seattle, WA with a bold idea: unlimited toppings, one price, no judgment.
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2013
Midwest Expansion Begins
Mod Pizza expands beyond the Pacific Northwest, bringing its community-driven model to the heart of America with a focus on hiring locally.
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2016
Fastest Growing Restaurant
Named the fastest-growing restaurant chain in the U.S. by Technomic — proof that putting people first is also great for business.
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2019
Downers Grove Opens
The Downers Grove, IL location opens on Ogden Ave, bringing Mod's signature handcrafted pizza to the local community in the western suburbs of Chicago.
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2022
Catering Program Launch
We launched our full catering program, bringing Mod Pizza's fresh, custom experience to offices, events, and celebrations of all sizes.
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Today
Still Here, Still Hungry
Still making pizza the right way — fresh, fast, and full of heart. Our Downers Grove crew shows up every day ready to make your perfect pizza.
The People Behind the Pizza
Meet Our Team
Every great pizza starts with passionate people. Our crew brings energy, skill, and a genuine love of food to work every single day.
Marcus Reid
General Manager
Marcus has been with Mod since 2019. He leads with heart, keeps standards high, and knows every regular by name.
Sofia Vargas
Head Pizza Chef
Sofia trained in traditional Neapolitan techniques before joining Mod. Her dough recipe is the foundation everything is built on.
Jordan Lee
Catering Coordinator
Jordan runs our catering program with precision and creativity. From corporate lunches to large events, no order is too big for his team.
Anika Thompson
Front of House Lead
Anika keeps the dining experience seamless and welcoming. Her energy sets the tone for every shift and every customer interaction.
Want to join our crew? We're always looking for passionate people.
View Open Positions